Lighting element

ABSTRACT

A lighting element includes a circuit board defining a longitudinal axis and including at least one illuminator thereon, a housing having at least one flexible element in the optical pathway of the at least one illuminator and in register with the at least one illuminator on the circuit board, and with opposing axial ends.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/485,662, filed Aug. 13, 2019, now allowed, which is aNational Phase application of International Application No.PCT/US2018/018127, filed Feb. 14, 2018, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/458,639 filed Feb. 14, 2017, all ofwhich are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

This invention relates to lighting and illumination fixtures for, in onenon-limiting example, a vehicle. In one of its aspects, the disclosurerelates to a lighting fixture with multiple light-emitting diode (LED)light sources. In another of its aspects, the disclosure relates to alight assembly of one or more light sources and housing components.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In one aspect, the disclosure relates to a lighting element including acircuit board defining a longitudinal axis and including at least oneilluminator, and a housing having a first flexible element and a secondflexible element, the first flexible element positioned in an opticalpathway of the at least one illuminator and the second flexible elementaligned with a periphery of the circuit board, wherein at least one ofthe first flexible element and the second flexible element includeopposing axial ends configured to match an axial end of an adjacentlighting element.

In another aspect, aspects of the disclosure relate to a lightingelement including a circuit board defining a longitudinal axis andincluding at least one illuminator, a housing having an optical elementhaving opposing axial ends, the optical element in register with the atleast one illuminator on the circuit board, and the housing including aperipheral wall enveloping a periphery of the circuit board, the housinghaving at least one inwardly-extending leg having a retainer thereon,and a heat sink having at least one recess in alignment with the atleast one inwardly-extending leg on the peripheral wall of the housing,wherein the inwardly-extending leg is positioned between opposingcircuit board and heat sink portions, and wherein the opposing axialends are configured to match an axial end of an adjacent lightingelement.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a lighting element assembly inaccordance with various aspects described herein.

FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the lighting elementassembly of FIG. 1, in accordance with various aspects described herein.

FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the lighting elementassembly, taken along line of FIG. 1, in accordance with various aspectsdescribed herein.

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the lighting elementassembly, taken along line IV-IV of FIG. 1, in accordance with variousaspects described herein.

FIG. 5 illustrates a zoomed cross-sectional view of the lighting elementassembly, in accordance with various aspects described herein.

FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a lighting element assemblymounted to a mounting surface, in accordance with various aspectsdescribed herein.

FIG. 7 illustrates a zoomed cross-sectional view of the lighting elementassembly fixed by way of a rivet, in accordance with various aspectsdescribed herein.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of the lighting element assemblyattached to a first vehicle surface, in accordance with various aspectsdescribed herein.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of the lighting element assemblyattached to a second vehicle surface, in accordance with various aspectsdescribed herein.

FIG. 10 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a primary vehiclelighting element including a set of supplemental lighting elements, inaccordance with various aspects described herein.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of the supplemental lightingelement of FIG. 10, in accordance with various aspects described herein.

FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the supplemental lightingelement, taken along line XII-XII of FIG. 10, in accordance with variousaspects described herein.

FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary top-down view of a continuous exteriorsurface of a set of the supplemental lighting elements, in accordancewith various aspects described herein.

FIG. 14 illustrates another exemplary top-down view of a continuousexterior surface of a set of the supplemental lighting elements, inaccordance with various aspects described herein.

FIG. 15 illustrates yet another exemplary top-down view of a continuousexterior surface of a set of the supplemental lighting elements, inaccordance with various aspects described herein.

FIG. 16 illustrates yet another exemplary top-down view of a continuousexterior surface of a set of the supplemental lighting elements, inaccordance with various aspects described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects of the disclosure can be implemented in any environment,apparatus, or method for illuminating or providing illumination. In onenon-limiting example configuration, aspects of the disclosure can beincluded as lighting element or supplementary lighting element for avehicle. For example, one non-limiting aspect of the disclosure can beutilized to provide active visual illumination, such as visual orlighting warnings, to attract the attention of motorists and pedestriansto the vehicle's presence or approach. While a “vehicle” is described,aspects of the disclosure can be applied to any vehicles, including, butnot limited to, emergency vehicles (e.g. fire trucks, ambulances, lawenforcement vehicles, or the like), construction vehicles (e.g. cars,trucks, construction equipment, bulldozers, cranes, or the like),land-based vehicles (pedestrian automobiles, motorbikes, all-terrainvehicles, or the like), sea-based vehicles (boats, barges, or the like),or air-based vehicles (aircraft, blimps, balloons, or the like).Non-limiting examples of vehicles can include, for instance, cars,trucks, semi-trucks, cargo carriers, boats, aircraft, and trains.Furthermore, as used herein, a vehicle does not need to include anindependent propulsion system, and can include, for example, train cars,barges, trailers, or semi-trailers. In addition to vehicles,non-limiting aspects of the disclosure can also be included instationary illumination applications, such as signage, securitylighting, or the like.

While “a set of” various elements will be described, it will beunderstood that “a set” can include any number of the respectiveelements, including only one element. As used herein, the terms “axial”or “axially” refer to a dimension along a longitudinal axis described.The terms “fore” or “forward” refers to a vector in the direction ofillumination of a lighting element, while the terms “aft,” “backward,”or “rear” used in refers to a direction opposite to the vector in thedirection of illumination of the lighting element, or toward the rearlighting element.

As used herein, the terms “radial” or “radially” refer to a dimensionextending between a center longitudinal axis described, an outercircumference, or a circular or annular component described.

All directional references (e.g., radial, axial, upper, lower, upward,downward, left, right, lateral, front, back, top, bottom, above, below,vertical, horizontal, clockwise, counterclockwise) are only used foridentification purposes to aid the reader's understanding of thedisclosure, and do not create limitations, particularly as to theposition, orientation, or use thereof. Connection references (e.g.,attached, coupled, connected, and joined) are to be construed broadlyand can include intermediate members between a collection of elementsand relative movement between elements unless otherwise indicated. Assuch, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elementsare directly connected and in fixed relation to each other. Theexemplary drawings are for purposes of illustration only and thedimensions, positions, order and relative sizes reflected in thedrawings attached hereto can vary.

FIG. 1 illustrates a lighting element assembly 10 in accordance withvarious aspects described herein. Non-limiting aspects of the disclosurecan be included wherein the lighting element assembly 10 is a primarylighting element or a supplemental lighting element, for instance, for avehicle or another device as described above. As used herein, a“primary” lighting element can include a primary illuminator, such asroom lighting, or automobile headlamps, while a “supplementary” lightingelement can include non-primary illuminators, including, but not limitedto, accessory lighting, light bars (e.g. for emergency or non-emergencyvehicles), warning lighting, perimeter lighting, notification lighting,or the like.

The lighting element assembly 10 can include at least one opticalelement 12, illustrated as a first optical element 14 and a secondoptical element 16. Non-limiting aspects of the disclosure can beincluded wherein the first and second optical elements 14, 16 can beformed or molded as a single, continuous optical element 12, or can beseparately formed as distinct optical elements 14, 16 and adjoined,assembled, coupled, attached, fixed, or the like. As shown, the at leastone optical element 12 can include a top portion (for example, the firstoptical element 14 portion) having a substantially ovate, planarsurface. Also, as shown, the at least one optical element 12 can includea side portion (for example, the second optical element 16) having aperipheral wall encircling the top portion while the contours transitionfrom the substantially planar surface of the top portion to a sidewallsurface that is substantially perpendicular to the top planar surface.Not limiting dimensional aspects of the lighting element assembly 10 caninclude an assembly that is less than or equal to 10 millimeters tall(e.g. 9 millimeters, or as measured from the base of the peripheral wallto the top planar surface), between, or less than, 76.2 millimeters to101.6 millimeters along a major body axis of the assembly 10, and lessthan or equal to 25 4 millimeters wide along a minor body axis of theassembly 10. In one non-limiting aspect of the disclosure, the lengthalong the major body axis of the assembly can be approximately 161.7millimeters.

In another non-limiting aspect of the disclosure, at least one of thefirst or second optical elements 14, 16 can be adjoined, or the like,during the forming process. For example, the first optical element 14can be formed, molded, manufactured, or the like, and can then beadjoined, or the like, during the forming, molding, manufacturing, orthe like, of the second optical element 16. Non-limiting aspects of thedisclosure can also be included wherein the compositions, colors,additives, tintings, attenuation, dopings, or physical properties orcharacteristics can be the same or dissimilar between the first andsecond optical elements 14, 16. In yet another non-limiting aspect ofthe disclosure, at least one of the first or second optical elements 14,16 can be formed or molded from a flexible, optical-grade siliconmaterial. While a flexible silicon material is described, any silicon orsilicone material can be included when describing the flexible siliconmaterial or element, including but not limited to, a silicone polymermaterial.

FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the lighting element assembly 10.As shown, the lighting element assembly can further include anelectronics board portion 20, a thermally conductive heat sink portion22, and an optional adhesive pad 24. In this sense, the heat sinkportion 22 is positioned between the electronics board portion 20 andthe optional adhesive pad 24. The electronics board portion 20 canfurther include, but is not limited to a circuit board 27, such as aprinted circuit board (PCB), supporting at least one illuminator andsupporting circuitry 28. In the non-limiting illustrated example, the atleast one illuminator can include a set of light-emitting diodes (LEDs)26, and the supporting circuitry 28 can include controller modulesconfigured to operate the set of LEDs 26, power electronics forconverting, regulating, or supplying appropriate power levels andpatterns to the LEDs 26, and the like. As shown, non-limiting aspects ofthe disclosure can be included wherein the entire set of the LEDs 26, ora subset thereof, are positioned or located along a common axis, acommon plane, or a common two-dimensional array. Non-limiting aspects ofthe electronics board portion 20 or the circuit board 27 can be includewherein the electronics board portion 20, the circuit board 27, or asubstrate thereof can be rigid or flexible.

Non-limiting aspects of the circuit board 27 can also include a set ofmountings 29 configured to receive a corresponding or matching set offasteners. Non-limiting examples of fasteners can include mechanicalfasteners, screws, nails, rivets, or the like, to enable or provide forphysical attachment or coupling of the electronics board portion 20 orthe lighting element assembly 10 to a mounting surface, such as thesurface of a vehicle (not shown). In another non-limiting example, themechanical fasteners can enable or provide for physical attachment orcoupling of the electronics board portion 20 to the heat sink portion22. In yet another non-limiting example, a set of more than onemechanical fasteners can be utilized, wherein, for example, a firstmechanical fastener enables or provides for physical attachment orcoupling of the electronics board portion 20 to the heat sink portion22, while a second mechanical fastener is utilized to mount the lightingelement assembly 10 to a mounting surface. In the aforementionedexample, the first and second mechanical fasteners can be differentfasteners (e.g. a rivet and a screw). For ease of understanding, thefastener has been generically illustrated as a set of screws 35.

The electronics board portion 20 can also include a set of electricalconnectors, shown as conductive wires 30, for electrically coupling atleast one of the circuit board 27, the supporting circuitry 28, or theLEDs 26 to a power source or a controller module configured to operatethe like. While a set of conductive wires 30 are illustrated,non-limiting aspects of the disclosure can be included wherein as few astwo conductive wires 30 are included (e.g. power and ground), or, forexample, three conductive wires 30 are included (e.g. power, ground,common control signal configured or generated for controlling the set ofLEDs 26). In yet another non-limiting aspect of the disclosure, theconductive wires 30 can connect by way of a physical locking connectorthat includes that conductive connection between the electronics boardportion 20 and the power source or controller module.

Non-limiting aspects of the heat sink portion 22 can include a thermallyconductive material, such as a metal, metal alloy, or the like, selectedfor thermally conductive properties. In another non-limiting aspect, theheat sink portion 22 can be rigid or flexible. During illuminationoperations, the LEDs 26 can generate an amount of heat that can bethermally conducted, for instance, via the circuit board 27, to the heatsink portion 22. Non-limiting configurations of the heat sink portion 22can also include a first aperture or opening 32 sized, shaped,contoured, keyed, or the like, to receive or enable the set ofconductive wires 30 to pass through the first opening 32. For example,while a circular opening 32 is shown, the opening 32 can include anyshaping, sizing, or the like, including but not limited to a squareopening. In another non-limiting configuration of the heat sink portion22, a set of second openings 34 can be provided that are sized, shaped,contoured, keyed, or the like, to receive or enable the set or a subsetof the screws 35 to pass through.

As shown, the optional adhesive pad 24 can include a corresponding setof second openings 34, aligned with the openings 34 of the heat sinkportion 22 for receiving or enabling the set or a subset of the screws35, as described. Non-limiting configurations of the optional adhesivepad 24 can also include a third aperture or opening 36 sized, shaped,contoured, keyed, or the like, to receive or enable the set ofconductive wires 30 to pass through the third opening 36. Aspects of thedisclosure are envisioned wherein the set of openings 34 are aligned orarranged based on the aforementioned mechanical fastener configurationsor locations.

FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the lighting elementassembly 10 taken along line of FIG. 1 (i.e. along the minor body axisof the lighting element assembly 10). As shown, the optical element 12or the first optical element 14 is positioned above the LED 26 such thatthe optical pathway of light emitted from the LED 26 is directed throughthe top substantially planar surface of the optical element 12 or thefirst optical element 14. In this sense, the optical element 12 or thefirst optical element 14 is in register with the LED 26. As shown,non-limiting configurations of the optical element 12 or the firstoptical element 14 can further include shaping 38, contours, angling, orthe like configured to enable the focusing of light emitted from the LED26 to concentrate, reach, or the like a predetermined target orpredetermined pattern. The optical element 12 or the first opticalelement 14 can also include a set of first legs 46 configured to define,structurally space, or resiliently enable or maintain a predefined focalspacing between the LED 26 and at least one of the optical element 12,the first optical element 14, or the shaping 38. In a furthernon-limiting aspect, the arrangement of LEDs 26 with shaping 38 isespecially favorable when the materials for optical element 12 arephysically non-rigid or flexible. For example, aspects of the disclosurecan be included wherein the first legs 46 provide for, enable, ormaintain self-alignment, registration, physical supportive means, or acombination thereof between the circuit board 27 and the shaping 38 oroptical element 12.

As shown, the lighting element assembly 10 can further include athermally conductive and electrically insulative portion such as athermal pad 80, positioned between the circuit board 27 and the heatsink portion 22 to electrically insulate the circuit board 27 from theheat sink portion 22. Non-limiting aspects of the thermal pad 80 caninclude a pre-formed solid or flexible material, such as silicon,configured to aid or enable the conduction of heat away from theelectronics board portion 20. In another non-limiting aspect, thethermal pad 80 can be an incompressible element or material. In thissense, heat generated by the LEDs 26 can be thermally conducted via thecircuit board 27, through the thermal pad 80, to the heat sink portion22.

In another non-limiting aspect of the disclosure, the optical element 12or the second optical element 16 can define a peripheral wall 42, asdescribed herein. As shown, at least a portion of the peripheral wall 42can extend rearwardly past at least one of the circuit board 27 or theheat sink portion 22. Non-limiting aspects of the disclosure can beincluded wherein the at least a portion of the peripheral wall 42 canfurther extend rearwardly past at least a portion of the optionaladhesive pad 24. In this sense, the circumference of the peripheral wall42 envelops a periphery of the circuit board 27, and defines at least aportion of a housing (including the optical element 12, the firstoptical element 14, or the second optical element 16) for the lightingelement assembly 10.

The optical element 12 or the second optical element 16 can also includeat least one second inwardly-extending leg 40 having a retainer 41. Theheat sink portion 22 can further include at least one thirdoutwardly-extending circumferential leg 44 having a recess 43 sized,shaped, contoured, keyed, or the like to mate, match, or otherwiseinteract with the retainer 41 of the second leg 40. In this sense, theretainer 41 and the recess 43 are configured, sized, shaped, or thelike, to be in alignment with, or to be received within each other whenthe lighting element assembly 10 is assembled. While FIG. 3 illustratesonly a single cross-sectional view, non-limiting aspects of thedisclosure can be included wherein the retainer 41 or the second leg 40extends along the entire inner surface of the entire peripheral wall 42,or a set of portions thereof. Likewise, non-limiting aspects of thedisclosure can be included wherein the recess 43 or the third leg 44extends along the entire periphery of the heat sink portion 22, or forexample, along a corresponding or matching set of periphery portionsaligned with the retainer 41.

As shown, at least one of the optical element 12, the second opticalelement 16, or the heat sink portion 22 can be sized such that a set ofgaps 48 can be formed between the heat sink portion 22 and the circuitboard 27, or between at least an aligned portion of the second leg 40and third leg 44, when the optical element 12 or the second opticalelement 16 is placed around the circuit board 27. While a gap 48 isillustrated between the thermal pad 80 and the heat sink portion 22,aspects of the disclosure can be included wherein the gap 48 can existbetween the circuit board 27 and the thermal pad 80 (e.g. the thermalpad 80 is coupled with the heat sink portion 22 instead of the circuitboard 27), or gaps 48 can exist both above and below the thermal pad 80.

Non-limiting aspects of the disclosure can also be included wherein atleast one of the optical element 12, the first optical element 14, orthe second optical element 16 can include an additive (schematicallyillustrated as dotted box 49). Non-limiting example additives 49 caninclude compositions, coloring elements, visible or non-visible spectrumlight attenuation or attenuating elements, tinting elements, dopingelements, or illuminative enhancement elements, such as a phosphoricelement. The additive 49 can be evenly dispersed or selectivelypositioned or located on or within the optical element 12. As describedherein, aspects of the disclosure can be included wherein the firstoptical element 14 and the second optical element 16 can includedissimilar additives 49. For instance, in one non-limitingconfiguration, the optical element 12 or the first optical element 14can include no additives 49, or additives 49 selected or configured toenable transparency or a predetermined amount of translucency. In thissense, the optical element 12 or the first optical element 14 can beconfigured to allow a significant portion of illumination from the LED26 to traverse through the optic.

In another non-limiting configuration, the optical element 12 or thesecond optical element 16 can include additives 49 selected orconfigured to enable transparency, a predetermined amount oftranslucency, a predetermined amount of opacity, or coloring of theoptic. For example, the optical element 12 or the second optical element16 can be configured to be at least partially opaque and to becolor-matched to correspond with a mounting surface, such as a wall orbody of a vehicle. In this sense, the optical element 12, the firstoptical element 14, or the second optical element 16 can be configuredor selected such that the additives 49 enable a “blending in” or a“concealing” quality of the light element assembly 10 relative to themounting surface. Stated another way, the light element assembly 10 canbe selectively configured to reduce the visibility of the light elementassembly 10 relative to the mounting surface or vehicle. In onnon-limiting example, a reduced visibility light element assembly 10 canimprove the concealment of a law enforcement vehicle.

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the lighting elementassembly 10 taken along line IV-IV of FIG. 1 (i.e. along the major bodyaxis of the lighting element assembly 10). As shown, non-limitingaspects of the disclosure can include the circuit board 27 having aplurality of grouped LED 26 sets, such as a plurality of 3 LEDs pergrouping. Each of the plurality of grouped LED 26 sets can be alignedwith a corresponding depending partial conical portion, or bulbousportion 50, of the optical element 12 or the first optical element 14.In this sense, the bulbous portion 50 defines a cavity 52 containing aset of the grouped LEDs 26.

FIG. 5 illustrates a zoomed cross-sectional view of a grouping of LEDs26 of FIG. 4. Non-limiting aspects of the disclosure can be includedwherein each LED 26 in a grouping of LEDs 26 are the same, or emit asubstantially similar colored light or illumination. Additionalnon-limiting aspects of the disclosure can be included wherein at leasta subset of the LEDs 26 in a grouping emits different colored light orillumination. For example, the grouping of LEDs can include a first LED54, a second LED 56, and a third LED 58. In a non-limiting first aspect,all the LEDs 54, 56, 58 can emit white light. In a non-limiting secondaspect, all LEDs 54, 56, 58 can emit red light. In a non-limiting thirdaspect, the first LED 54 can emit a first color, such as red, while atleast one of the second or third LEDs 56, 58 can emit a second color,such as white. In yet another non-limiting fourth aspect, the first LED54 can emit a first color, such as red, the second LED 56 can emit asecond color, such as white, and the third LED 58 can emit a thirdcolor, such as blue.

While only a single set of grouped LEDs 26 is illustrated, non-limitingaspects of the disclosure can be included wherein the same LEDs 26 (i.e.same colors of LEDs 26, or grouping of similarly-colored LEDs 26) ofeach grouping are controllably illuminated at the same time. Forinstance, all red LEDs 26 can be configured to operate simultaneouslyunder a first control condition such that the lighting element assembly10 only produces red light. In another example configuration, a firstset of LEDs 26 can be configured to operate in an alternating flashingpattern with a second set of LEDs 26 to, for instance, flash red andwhite light from the lighting element assembly 10.

FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the lighting elementassembly 10 similar to FIG. 3, therefore like parts are identified withlike numerals. A difference between FIG. 3 and FIG. 6 is that FIG. 6illustrates a view wherein the lighting element assembly 10 has beenfastened, coupled, or attached to a mounting surface 62, such as avehicle. In one non-limiting aspects of the disclosure, a fastener (notshown) can be utilized to restrain, bias, fix, or compress the circuitboard 27 toward the mounting surface 62. As a result of the compressiveforce of the circuit board 27 toward the mounting surface 62, theperipheral wall 42 of the optical element 12 or the second opticalelement 16 is compressed toward the mounting surface 62. Since theperipheral wall 42 is a flexible material, the compressive force of theperipheral wall 42 toward the mounting surface 62 can form aweather-tight seal, preventing moisture, debris, and the like fromaccessing the interior of the lighting element assembly 10. In anothernon-limiting configuration of the disclosure, the compressive forcebetween the circuit board 27 toward the mounting surface 62 can beprovided or enabled by way of the optional adhesive pad 24. In thisconfiguration, for example, the mechanical fasteners can connect theheat sink portion 22 with the circuit board 27, as described herein.

In another non-limiting aspects of the disclosure, the compressive forceof the circuit board 27 toward the mounting surface 62, the peripheralwall 42 of the optical element 12 or the second optical element 16 iscompressed toward the mounting surface 62 can effectively or operablyclose or eliminate the gap 48 (i.e. as shown and described with respectto FIG. 3) between the heat sink portion 22, the thermal pad 80, and thecircuit board 27. In another non-limiting configuration of thedisclosure, the compressive force between the circuit board 27 towardthe mounting surface 62 can be provided or enabled by way of theoptional adhesive pad 24.

In yet another non-limiting aspect of the disclosure, the compressiveforce (via compression toward the mounting surface 62, or viacompression of the circuit board 27 and the heat sink portion 22) caneffectively or operably close or eliminate the gap 48 between at leastan aligned portion of the second leg 40 and third leg 44. In yet anothernon-limiting aspect of the disclosure, the compressive force caneffectively or operably close or eliminate all of the gaps 48 describedherein. Since at least the second leg 40 can be a flexible material, thecompressive force toward the mounting surface 62, or between the circuitboard 27 and the heat sink portion 22, can form a weather-tight seal,preventing moisture, debris, and the like from accessing the interior ofthe lighting element assembly 10. At least one of the compressive sealbetween the mounting surface 62 and the peripheral wall 42, between theheat sink portion 22 and the circuit board 27, or between at least analigned portion of the second leg 40 and third leg 44 can prevent accessto the circuit board 27.

FIG. 7 illustrates a non-limiting zoomed cross-sectional view of thelighting element assembly 10, wherein the circuit board 27 is fixed orfastened relative to the heat sink portion 22 by way of a mechanicalfastener, illustrated as a rivet 90. As shown, the fastening or fixingof the circuit board 27 relative to the heat sink portion 22 can providethe compressive force described herein to close the gap 48 between thecircuit board 27, the heat sink portion 22, the thermal pad 80, or acombination thereof.

FIG. 8 illustrates another non-limiting aspect of the disclosure whereina lighting element assembly 110 can be fastened to a vehicle 100surface, such as a car side wall or door 102, by way of anotherfastener, such as a clip mount 160. As shown, the clip mount can providethe aforementioned compressive force to form the compressive sealsdescribed herein.

FIG. 9 illustrates another non-limiting aspect of the disclosure,wherein a set of lighting element assemblies 210 can be fastened to avehicle 200 surface, such as along a windshield 202, or along apredefined mounting line of the vehicle 200, to define a lightingassembly, such as a light bar.

FIG. 10 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a primary vehiclelighting element 300, such as a lightbar for a vehicle. The vehiclelighting element 300 includes a frame 302 that supports multiple, or aset of, supplemental lighting elements 310, such as, or similar to, thelighting element assembly 10, 110, 210 described herein. A complementaryupper member 304 can couple with the frame 302 via fasteners 319. Thefasteners 319 can be any suitable fastener, such as screws and the like.Feet 308 can be provided on the frame 302 in order to mount the vehiclelighting element 300 to at least a portion of a vehicle.

The frame 302 can include a set of outwardly faceted surfaces 306 thatdefine an exterior surface 306 of the frame 302. In one non-limitingexample, the outwardly faceted surfaces 306 can be arranged to faceoutwardly in a direction parallel with the upper member 304. The set ofsupplemental lighting elements 310 can be in contact with the exteriorsurface 306, or mounting surface 321, and can be in alignment such thatadjacent supplemental lighting elements 310 form a continuousoutwardly-facing exterior surface 350 of the supplemental lightingelements 310. The continuous exterior surface 350 can extend around theentire perimeter of the frame 302 and can form a seal around theexterior surface 306 of the frame 302.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a single supplemental lightingelement 310. The supplemental lighting element 310 can include a housing311 that can include an optical element 312 having opposing axial ends313. The optical element 312 can be formed of a flexible and translucentor transparent material that can be molded, such as an optical gradesilicon. The optical element 312 can further include a first flexiblesilicon molding 314 and a second flexible silicon molding 316 positionedabout the periphery of the first flexible silicon molding 314. Thesecond flexible silicon molding 316 can include the opposing axial ends313 and can be formed by over-molding the first flexible silicon molding314. It is contemplated that the second flexible silicon molding 316 canbe formed with an opaque material, rather than a translucent ortransparent material.

The housing 311 can also include peripheral walls 342 of the secondflexible silicon molding 316 that can be coupled with the opposing axialends 313 and can generally extend along a longitudinal axis 347 or majorbody axis of the supplemental lighting element 310. The longitudinalaxis 347 can be defined by a circuit board (not shown) located withinthe supplemental lighting element 310, where the longitudinal axis 347can be perpendicular to and in between the opposing axial ends 313. Alength 345 (“L” in the figure) can extend parallel with the longitudinalaxis 347 and define a set or predetermined length of the housing 311. Inone non-limiting aspect of the disclosure, the length 345 can beapproximately 161.7 millimeters (6.3 inches). Furthermore, a height 344or minor body axis of the supplemental lighting element 310 can bemeasured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 347 and can be about 1.1inches, or 27.94 millimeters. In one non-limiting example, each of theaxial ends 313 can be formed or configured to correspond with or matchan adjacent axial end 313 of an adjacent supplemental lighting element310. While substantially flat or planar axial ends 313 are shown,additional axial end 313 configurations can be included in aspects ofthe disclosure.

FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the supplemental lightingelement 310, taken along line XII-XII of FIG. 10. A circuit board 327within the housing 311 can include at least one illuminator 326 inregister with optical element 312 where the first flexible siliconmolding 314 can be positioned in the optical path of the illuminator326. The illuminator can be contained within a cavity 352 and caninclude a set of light-emitting diodes (LEDs). It is contemplated thatthe supplemental lighting element 310 includes a sensor configured tosense an environmental state proximate to the supplemental lightingelement 310 such that the supplemental lighting element 310 can operatein response to the environmental state. For example, the illuminator 326can be configured to auto-dim such that the illuminator 326 reducesoutput power during darker operating conditions sensed by the sensor.Environmental states can include but are not limited to: ambient light,strobing or pulsating light, temperature, and current drawing in orderto determine an installed or not installed state.

The peripheral wall 342 of the optical element 312 can envelope aperiphery of the circuit board 327. A heat sink 322 can be disposedbelow the circuit board 327, and a thermal pad 380 can be disposedbetween the circuit board 327 and the heat sink 322. When the opticalelement 312 is positioned, or placed, around the circuit board 327, agap 348 can be formed between the heat sink 322 and the circuit board327. The housing 311 can include at least one inwardly-extending leg 340on the peripheral wall 342 that can be positioned between the opposingcircuit board 327 and the heat sink 322. A retainer 341 on theinwardly-extending leg 340 can be located within a recess 343 inalignment with the inwardly-extending leg 340 on the heat sink 322.

FIG. 12 more clearly shows the continuous exterior surface 350 formed byadjacent supplemental lighting elements 310. A fastener 323 can passthrough at least one of the circuit board 327 or heat sink 322 to attachthe circuit board 327 with the heat sink 322 or, attach the supplementallighting element 310 to a mounting surface 321. When the fastener 323passes through the circuit board 327 or the heat sink 322, a compressiveforce from the fastener 323 forces the circuit board 327 toward the heatsink 322, which can close the gap 348 between the circuit board 327 andthe heat sink 322 and form a weather-tight seal. Furthermore, when thefastener is mounted to a mounting surface 321, a compressive force fromthe fastener can force the peripheral wall 342 of the housing 311 towardthe mounting surface 321 to form a weather-tight seal between thesupplemental lighting element 310 and the mounting surface 321. Inaddition to forming a weather-tight seal between the supplementallighting element 310 and the mounting surface 321, the supplementallighting element 310 can form a weather-tight seal between adjacentlighting elements 310. A set of electrical connectors, shown asconductive wires 330, can electrically couple the circuit board 327, orthe illuminator 26 to a power source.

Since the supplemental lighting elements 310 can form weather-tightseals where the circuit board 327 and other electronics are containedwithin the interior of the housing 311, each supplemental lightingelement 310 can be addressed to execute commands from a centralcontroller rather than each supplemental lighting element 310 havingtheir own controller. The centralized controller can be in the form of aremote such that the controller is not required to be located on thevehicle light bar 300.

The opposing axial ends 313 of the supplemental lighting element 310 areconfigured to be in alignment and match, or conform to an adjacentopposing axial end 313 of an adjacent supplemental lighting element 310.Since the adjacent opposing axial ends 313 of adjacent supplementallighting elements 310 are configured to match, the adjacent opticalelements 312 can form the continuous exterior surface 350 of thesupplemental lighting elements.

Turning to FIG. 13, an exemplary continuous exterior surface 350 isillustrated where adjacent opposing axial ends 313 of supplementallighting elements 310 can form a butt joint alignment 360 or a miteredjoint alignment 362 such that the butt joint alignment 360 forms astraight edge and the mitered joint alignment 362 forms an angular edge.In one non-limiting example, the joint alignment 360, 362 can beselected to match or correspond with the underlying mounting surface 321(not shown) Non-limiting examples can be included wherein, for example,a supplemental lighting element 310 a can include dissimilar opposingaxial ends 313 such that the alignment for the opposing axial ends 313are different configurations. FIG. 14 illustrates another example of thecontinuous exterior surface 350 where two mitered joint alignments 362are shown in successive adjacent opposing axial ends 313 such that thecontinuous exterior surface 350 has two successive angular edges. FIG.15 illustrates yet another continuous exterior surface 350 having radialjoint alignments 364. The radial joint alignments 364 can provide for anangular or curving edge that is more round that an edge formed bymitered joint alignments 362. Additional curvatures, curve radii, andthe like can be included in aspects of the disclosure.

Turning now to FIG. 16, yet another exemplary continuous exteriorsurface 350 is illustrated where adjacent opposing axial ends 313 of thesupplemental lighting elements 310 can form a mechanical interlock 370.The mechanical interlock 370 can be formed where a first axial end 313defines a key element 366 and a second, adjacent axial end 313 defines akeyway 368. The key element 366 and the keyway 368 are configured to beany suitable complementary shapes such that the key element 366 and thekeyway 368 can mechanically interlock. For example, the key element 366can include a projection while the keyway 338 can include acomplementary recess in order for the projection to tightly fit withinthe recess.

The continuous exterior surface 350 can be formed by any combinationadjacent axial end 313 alignments including, but not limited to acombination of butt joint alignments 360, mitered joint alignments 362,radial joint alignments 364, mechanical interlocks 370, or the like,where each supplemental lighting element 310 can include similar ordissimilar alignments of opposing axial ends 313.

Many other possible embodiments and configurations in addition to thatshown in the above figures are contemplated by the present disclosure.For example, one non-limiting aspect of the disclosure can be includedwherein an additional sealing element, such as a flexible material,adhesive, sealant, or the like, can be received into or proximate to atleast one of the retainer 41 or the recess 43, between the peripheralwall 42 and a mounting surface 62, or between adjacent axial ends 313,to provide or improve the weather-proof seal described herein.

The embodiments disclosed herein provide a vehicle lighting assembly.One advantage that can be realized in the above embodiments is that theabove-described aspects have superior size and durability advantagesover conventional lighting fixtures. The flexible silicon opticalelements provide for improved durability, or are more resistant tochips, cracks, or dulling, compared with similarly configured and sizedpolycarbonate type lens. The aforementioned configurations furtherprovide for a thermally coupled heat sink that can be further connectedwith a vehicle mounting surface, further enabling increased heat removalor cooling capabilities compared with conventional configurations. Yetanother advantage of the above-described aspects is that the lightingelement assembly includes no sharp edges, allowing the lighting elementassembly to meet state, local, or federal guidelines relating to smoothouter surface requirements.

Yet another advantage of the described assembly is that the opticalelements allow for selective doping, tinting, or coloring of the housingto provide reduced visibility, or increased concealment of the assembly,compared with conventional lighting elements. Reduced visibility, orincreased concealment can result in more effective vehicle utilization,such as for law enforcement. Reduced visibility or increased concealmentis further enabled by a lower overall height of the lighting elementassembly, as described. Yet another advantage of the described assemblyis that the mounting of the lighting element assembly can provide for atleast one weather-tight seal, preventing moisture or debris fromentering the assembly, or interfering with the electronics such as thecircuit board or LEDs. The interference of weather can increasemaintenance efforts, or prematurely reduce the expected operating lifeof the assembly or subcomponents.

Yet another advantage of the described assembly is that the assemblyallows for or enables a set of multi-colored LEDs to be included, aswell as conformity of controlling operations for the multi-colored LEDs.By enabling multi-colored, controllable LEDs, a single lighting elementassembly can effectively function as a set of different, single-coloredlighting assemblies. Yet another advantage of the described assembly isthat the assembly allows for or enables the molding of the housing oroptical elements into shapes not otherwise possible with traditionalengineering thermoplastics. Another advantage is the integrated singlepiece 12 with short optical profile height of the full assembly relativeto the mounting surface 62.

Yet another advantage of the described supplemental lighting elementsallows for more customization of a vehicle lighting element as variousalignments of opposing axial ends enable the size and shape of thevehicle lighting element to vary. Thus, a vehicle lighting element caninclude an array of linear and nonlinear portions of the continuousexterior surface. Mechanical interlocking alignments can also providefor optimal interlocking engagement of adjacent supplemental lightingelements. Moreover, the flexible silicon material of the supplementallighting elements allows the part to be molded such that the alignmentscan be effectively formed. The flexible silicon material also allows forsuperior impact and chipping resistance compared to conventionalthermoplastic lenses, as well as resistance to yellowing over time.

Yet another advantage of the described supplemental lighting elementsallows for formation of weather-tight seals between the circuit boardand the heat sink, as well as between the housing and the mountingsurface. The weather-tight seals can protect against water, salt, orother contaminants from entering the interior of the supplementallighting element or between the supplemental lighting element and themounting surface. Furthermore, the weather-tight seals of thesupplemental lighting element allow the electronics to be entirelycontained within the housing such that there is no need for anelectronic control PCB or other electronic to be sealed internal thevehicle light bar frame. Thus, the vehicle light bar can be configuredin a uniquely thin design. The thin profile of the vehicle light bar canreduce aerodynamic drag, part weight, attachment complexity, as well asconspicuity.

To the extent not already described, the different features andstructures of the various embodiments can be used in combination witheach other as desired. That one feature cannot be illustrated in all ofthe embodiments is not meant to be construed that it cannot be, but isdone for brevity of description. Thus, the various features of thedifferent embodiments can be mixed and matched as desired to form newembodiments, whether or not the new embodiments are expressly described.Combinations or permutations of features described herein are covered bythis disclosure.

This written description uses examples to disclose embodiments of theinvention, including the best mode, and also to enable any personskilled in the art to practice embodiments of the invention, includingmaking and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporatedmethods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims,and can include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art.Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims ifthey have structural elements that do not differ from the literallanguage of the claims, or if they include equivalent structuralelements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages ofthe claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A lighting element comprising: a circuit boarddefining a longitudinal axis and including at least one illuminator; ahousing having a first flexible element and a second flexible element,the first flexible element positioned in an optical pathway of the atleast one illuminator and the second flexible element aligned with aperiphery of the circuit board; and wherein at least one of the firstflexible element and the second flexible element include opposing axialends configured to match an axial end of an adjacent lighting element.2. The lighting element of claim 1, wherein the first flexible elementis transparent.
 3. The lighting element of claim 2, wherein the secondflexible element is at least partially opaque.
 4. The lighting elementof claim 1, wherein at least one of the first flexible element or thesecond flexible element comprises at least one of a silicon material ora silicone material.
 5. The lighting element of claim 1, wherein thehousing defines a minor body axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axisof the circuit board, and wherein the minor body axis is less than orequal to 27.94 millimeters wide.
 6. A lightbar assembly, comprising aset of lighting elements of claim 1 adjacently arranged along axial endsof at least a subset of the lighting elements.
 7. The lightbar assemblyof claim 6, wherein each of the set of lighting elements are adjacentlyarranged with another of the set of lighting elements along respectiveaxial ends.
 8. A lighting element comprising: a circuit board defining alongitudinal axis and including at least one illuminator; a housinghaving an optical element having opposing axial ends, the opticalelement in register with the at least one illuminator on the circuitboard, and the housing including a peripheral wall enveloping aperiphery of the circuit board, the housing having at least oneinwardly-extending leg having a retainer thereon; and a heat sink havingat least one recess in alignment with the at least oneinwardly-extending leg on the peripheral wall of the housing; whereinthe inwardly-extending leg is positioned between opposing circuit boardand heat sink portions, and wherein the opposing axial ends areconfigured to match an axial end of an adjacent lighting element.
 9. Thelighting element of claim 8 wherein a height of the lighting element,measured perpendicular to longitudinal axis, is approximately 27.94millimeters.
 10. The lighting element of claim 8 wherein the opposingaxial ends are configured to match an axial end of the adjacent lightingelement such that the adjacent optical elements form a continuousexterior surface of the adjacent lighting elements.
 11. The lightingelement of claim 8 wherein the opposing axial ends are configured toalign with the axial end of the adjacent lighting element in at leastone of a butt joint alignment, a mitered joint alignment, or a radialjoint alignment.
 12. The lighting element of claim 11 wherein opposingaxial ends of the optical element are dissimilar alignmentconfigurations.
 13. The lighting element of claim 8 wherein the opposingaxial ends comprise a first axial end defining a key element and asecond axial end defining a keyway, wherein the key element and keywayare configured to mechanically interlock.
 14. The lighting element ofclaim 8 wherein the optical element is made from a flexible siliconematerial.
 15. The lighting element of claim 8 wherein the retainer onthe at least one inwardly-extending leg of the housing is located withinthe recess on the heat sink.
 16. The lighting element of claim 8,further comprising at least one fastener passing through at least one ofthe circuit board or the heat sink configured for at least one ofattaching the circuit board with the heat sink or attachment of thelighting element to a mounting surface.
 17. The lighting element ofclaim 16 further comprising a gap formed between the heat sink and thecircuit board when the optical element is placed around the circuitboard.
 18. The lighting element of claim 17 wherein a compressive forcefrom the fastener forces circuit board toward the heat sink, closing thegap between the heat sink and the circuit board to form a weather-tightseal.
 19. The lighting element of claim 17 wherein, when the fastener ismounted to a mounting surface, a compressive force from the fastenerforces the peripheral wall of the housing toward the mounting surface toform a weather-tight seal.
 20. The lighting element of claim 8 whereinthe optical element includes a first flexible silicone moldingpositioned in an optical path of the at least one illuminator and asecond flexible silicone molding positioned about the periphery of thefirst flexible silicone molding and including the peripheral wall andthe at least one inwardly-extending leg, and wherein the second flexiblesilicone molding includes the opposing axial ends.